As a wave of opposition protests threaten to roil Kenya over the soaring cost of living, a collective of Western diplomats have finally broken their silence, urging all factions to commit to dialogue as the more prudent path forward.
Thirteen high-ranking diplomats hailing from nations including Australia, Denmark, Germany, the United States, Netherlands, Sweden, Ukraine, Canada, Ireland, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom have expressed profound concern over the loss of life, escalating violence, and widespread property destruction.
The collective statement recognised the daily struggles faced by many Kenyans and urged all parties to voice their grievances through meaningful dialogue and peaceful resolution to further the nation’s development while avoiding further loss of life.
“We stand ready to support the parties in their efforts to find constructive and peaceful solutions,” the statement read.
In defiance of government warnings, Kenya’s principal opposition, the ‘Azimio One Kenya’ Alliance, pledged to proceed with a three-day protest against the government of President William Ruto. Elected last year on the back of promises to support ‘hustlers’, curb reckless government spending and enhance living standards, President Ruto has come under fire from opponents led by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Critics, seizing upon Ruto’s recent bid to increase taxes, accuse him of failing to uphold his campaign promises. A Finance Act detailing the proposed tax hikes is currently being challenged in court after Senator Okiya Omtatah of Busia County questioned its constitutionality.
Despite the High Court’s suspension of the law’s implementation, opposition groups have forged ahead with protest plans. On Tuesday, Azimio accused the government of deploying ‘death squads’ against protesters. This came after last week’s demonstrations turned deadly, with nine people losing their lives.
Human rights organisations have criticised the police’s excessive use of force in handling the protests and condemned government leaders for their aggressive rhetoric and threats against protestors, arguing that such hostility only serves to escalate political tension.
In a statement released ahead of tomorrow’s planned three-day round of continuous protests, Human Rights Watch called on political leaders to refrain from labelling protesters as terrorists and to respect the human rights to assembly and peaceful protest. The group also criticised the police for their excessive use of force, including the use of live ammunition against protesters, resulting in numerous fatalities and hundreds of injuries.
Image Credit: AP Photo
